Biden administration ramps up battle against Opioids crisis. Here's how

Reports suggest the White House has announced a $1.5 billion to battle the opioid crisis. According to reports, 109,000 people died due to overdose in 2021. The number has increased almost 15% from the previous year and is the first time deaths due to overdose have crossed 100,000 in a year.

Deaths due to drug overdose have skyrocketed in the past few years, and officials say it is due to the increased use of fentanyl (synthetic opioids). Experts say no single case drives the crisis, and there is a failure in the system concerning regulation, social support, policing, and health.

There have been deaths due to three types of drug usage. The drugs include synthetic drugs like fentanyl, street drugs like heroin, and prescription opioids like OxyContin. Synthetic drugs are made in labs and look identical to street drugs. Synthetic drugs are dangerous because they can lace other drugs, and it can be easy to take lethal doses. Deaths are not the only consequence of opioids. Millions experience joblessness, disorders, and homelessness due to its use. The FDA has eased access to naloxone, known as Narcan, as it helps fight overdosage.


FAQ

1. How many deaths happened due to drug overdosage in 2021?
   According to reports, 109,000 people died due to overdose in 2021. The number has increased almost 15% from the previous year and is the first time deaths due to overdose have crossed 100,000 in a year.

1. Access to which drug has been eased by the FDA to fight the overdosage of opioids?
   The FDA has eased access to naloxone, known as Narcan, as it helps fight overdosage.